Revolutionising IBC storage and drainage – Australian Mining

by | Oct 9, 2023 | Engineer

Bend-tech offers a tailored solution for efficiency and safety in the use of intermediate bulk containers.

In various industries, the use of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) has become indispensable for storing and transporting liquids.
However, the conventional practices of IBC storage and drainage often lead to inefficiencies, safety hazards, and resource wastage.
Australian Mining spoke with engineering company Bend-tech to examine the existing issues associated with IBC storage and present an innovative solution that is designed to transform the way these containers are utilised.
A common challenge arises in the form of inappropriate IBC storage.
IBCs are frequently placed on makeshift stands that lack the essential certification for their intended purpose. These structures are often assembled on-site without adherence to established safety regulations and industry standards, endangering the stability of the IBCs and the safety of workers.
Compounding the problem, IBCs are often stored in a horizontal position, resulting in difficulties when extracting the last remnants of liquid as the container nears depletion. The liquid tends to collect in one end, making complete drainage cumbersome and time-consuming.
In response, on-site teams resort to manual tipping of IBCs, a process that not only consumes labour but exposes workers to potential physical risks.
To confront these challenges head-on, a forward-thinking solution has emerged, aimed at not only addressing storage concerns but also enhancing drainage efficiency. Here’s a breakdown of this innovative approach.
The foundation of the solution rests on certified IBC stands featuring a carefully designed 15° tilt on top. This inclination ensures that the liquid naturally gravitates toward the outlet, facilitating complete drainage without the need for manual intervention.
Recognising the diverse applications of IBCs, the solution incorporates adjustable-height legs.
This adaptability allows IBCs to be positioned at the ideal height for a particular task, minimising strain and enhancing operational convenience.
Mobility is a key aspect of modern industry. The solution therefore integrates fork pockets into the stands and the IBCs, enabling effortless lifting, transportation and relocation.
Industries like mining demand sturdier solutions due to their often-harsh operating conditions. Accordingly, the solution introduces extra heavy-duty construction tailored for mining, ensuring durability and reliability.
By embracing this innovative approach, a paradigm shift in IBC storage and drainage is achieved, yielding a host of benefits:
Improved drainage efficiency – the 15° tilt in certified stands expedites liquid drainage, eliminating the need for manual tipping and saving time
Enhanced safety – the ergonomic design and adjustable-height legs mitigate the manual handling risks typically associated with IBCs
Tailored application – the adjustable-height feature ensures IBCs can be set at the optimal height for a given task, enhancing precision and comfort
Versatility in mobility – fork pockets empower seamless transportation, enabling the IBCs to be easily relocated across various operational areas.
The challenges posed by conventional IBC storage and drainage practices demand innovative solutions.
The combination of all aspects in the innovative solution means industries can revolutionise the way IBCs are stored, utilised and drained. This approach not only bolsters efficiency and safety but also showcases a commitment to embracing advancements that drive positive change in the industrial landscape.
As the industry embraces this new era of IBC management, the stage has been set for a more productive, safer and streamlined future.
This feature appeared in the October 2023 issue of Australian Mining.

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Since 1908, Australian Mining has informed the industry on the latest news and technologies from across the mining sector. Comprising of a monthly print magazine, website and e-newsletter, Australian Mining is a leading resource showcasing the latest in mining innovation. 
     

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